"You've made our day in the city of Springfield," Sarno said, referring to Eastwood's portrayal of "Dirty" Harry Callahan, the Smith & Wesson pistol-brandishing officer who dared criminals to test the gun's firepower by saying "go ahead, make my day."

Sarno, Police Commission William J. Fitchet and Smith & Wesson officials announced the gift during a ceremony at the company's Page Boulevard headquarters.

"We're very proud to be getting this firearm," said Fitchet, referring to the new M&P40 pistol, a versatile and low-maintenance weapon designed for police departments.

The new pistol will replace the SW99 side arm used by city police for the past seven years; the older guns will be turned back to Smith & Wesson for resale to security companies or other buyers, the company said.